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ParkTalk Podcast
Naperville Park District, serving a large Chicago suburb, shares stories of people passionate about health, nature, sports, community and everything related to parks and recreation.
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Send us your questions and ideas for future episodes!
Email Sameera at sluthman@napervilleparks.org or Danny at drehm@napervilleparks.org.
Selected Episodes
For a complete list of episodes, visit www.soundcloud.com/naperparks/tracks
Expanding Our Volunteer Outreach
April 8, 2025
As the nation prepares for National Volunteer Week beginning April 20, Volunteer & Events Manager Becca Krzyszkowski, and Park Specialist Trevor Stibbe, discuss volunteer’s impact to the Naperville Park District.
Guest: Becca Krzyszkowski, Trevor Stibbe
Host: Danny Rehm
Prepping for Beach Season
March 7, 2025
It's almost summertime, and the Naperville Park District is preparing the famous Centennial Beach for another year of summer fun. Join Park District Aquatics Manager Brett Sprague, and Park Operations Manager Tiffani Picco, as they discuss the work necessary to get ready for beach season.
Guest: Brett Sprague, Tiffani Picco
Host: Danny Rehm
2025 State of the Naperville Park District
February 3, 2025
This 6-episode series features interviews with Park District leaders, community partners and elected officials with a theme of "Shaping a Sustainable Future in Parks and Recreation" as it pertains to District operations across the organization in addition to providing a retrospective of 2024. This is the eighth year that we have offered the State of the Naperville Park District as a podcast series hosted by Sameera Luthman, Director of Marketing and Communications.
Host: Sameera Luthman
Sustainable Refueling with the B20 Club
January 17, 2025
As a community leader in sustainability, the Naperville Park District adopts various practices that is beneficial to the environment. Join Bailey Arnold of the American Lung Association, as well as Clint Burnell and Lee Meyer from the Naperville Park District discuss biodiesel fuel and the purpose of the B20 Club.
Guest: Bailey Arnold, Clint Burnell, Lee Meyer
Host: Danny Rehm
Embarking on Your Health Journey
December 10, 2024
As we turn the calendar and head into the new year, there is not better time to set lifestyle goals and live a healthier life. However, beginning that journey can be difficult without the right guidance. Join Naperville Park District's Wellness Manager, Kim Monti and personal trainer Heather Grier as they discuss the ins and outs of starting and maintaining your healthy lifestyle.
Guest: Kim Monti, Heather Grier
Host: Danny Rehm
Preparing for the Community Job Fair
November 8, 2024
The annual Community Job Fair is set for January 4, 2025. To prepare potential job seekers in the area, Naperville Park District Director of Human Resources Katie Sepe, along with KidsMatter CEO and Executive Director Nina Menis, and KidsMatter Director of Programs Sherilyn Hebel, discuss the background of the job fair, the importance of the event to both organizations and how job seekers should prepare for the upcoming fair.
Guest: Katie Sepe, Nina Menis, Sherilyn Hebel
Host: Danny Rehm
Experiencing Change with Autumn
October 1, 2024
As the weather changes and the scenery shifts from summer green to fall yellow, ecologist Scott Kobal from the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County talks about the environmental changes during nature's transition to fall.
Guest: Scott Kobal
Host: Danny Rehm
Looking Back on a Lifetime of Dance at the Naperville Park District
September 3, 2024
Preparation for the Spring Dance Recital takes a lot of hard work. Dance Academy alumni, Mary Redgate and Ellie Laflamme, talk about their experiences dancing for the Park District and their passion for the artform.
Guest: Mary Redgate, Ellie Laflamme
Host: Danny Rehm
Nurturing Nature: A Decade of the Knoch Knolls Nature Center
August 6, 2024
The Knoch Knolls Nature Center has been an environmental staple in the community since opening its doors in 2014. Ahead of the 10th Anniversary celebration, Naperville Park District Executive Director Brad Wilson and Nature Center Manager Angelique Harshman join the podcast to discuss the Nature Center's impact on the community over the last decade.
Guest: Brad Wilson, Angelique Harshman
Host: Danny Rehm
Growth in Naperville Golf
July 9, 2024
The game of golf has seen a boom in popularity across the country, and that surge has been felt at the Naperville Park District. Director of Golf, Kevin Carlson and Springbrook Head Golf Professional, Mike Lyzun sit down to discuss the growth of Park District golf and the golf facilities at the Naperville Park District.
Guest: Kevin Carlson, Mike Lyzun
Host: Danny Rehm
Second Serve: Pickleball Five Years Later
June 6, 2024
In 2019, a ParkTalk Podcast series covered pickleball's popularity and health benefits. Five years later, we reexamine the sport and explore the growth in the last half decade and how the culture around pickleball can continue to change.
Guest: Brock Atwell, Kristina McGrath
Host: Danny Rehm
Naperville Runs: Lace up and Go!
May 7, 2024
Marissa Hird from the Naperville Running Company, a partner of the Naperville Park District, talks about the partnership between the organizations, the health benefits of running, and gives tips for beginner runners.
Guest: Marissa Hird
Host: Danny Rehm
Opening Day: Coaching the Fundamentals
April 3, 2024
Youth baseball and softball coaches, Brian Kelly and Doug Diederich, share their experiences coaching for the Naperville Park District and the importance of instilling good sportsmanship while teaching the fundamentals of baseball and softball.
Guest: Brian Kelly, Doug Diederich
Host: Danny Rehm
WDSRA and Naperville Park District: A Special Partnership
March 5, 2024
Western DuPage Special Recreation Association Inclusion Manager, Maddy Manden, and Naperville Park District Superintendent of Recreation, Jackie Gonzalez, join the podcast to discuss the partnership between WDSRA and Naperville Park District and the agencies' efforts to provide recreational programs to the community and create an inclusive society.
Guest: Maddy Manden, Jackie Gonzalez
Host: Danny Rehm
S37: 2024 State of the Naperville Park District
February 1, 2024
This 6-episode series features interviews with Park District leaders and elected officials with a theme of "Growing into the Future" as it pertains to District operations across the organization in addition to providing a retrospective of 2023. This is the seventh year that we have offered the State of the Naperville Park District as a podcast series hosted by Sameera Luthman, Director of Marketing and Communications.
Host: Sameera Luthman
Passing the Mic
January 16, 2024
ParkTalk Podcast host, Sue Omanson, has retired after 22 years with the Naperville Park District. To celebrate her career, Sue talks about the history of the ParkTalk Podcast and what she loves about the Park District all while introducing the podcast's new host, Danny Rehm.
Guest: Sue Omanson
Host: Danny Rehm, Sameera Luthman
Remembering Fairlane Farms
December 12, 2023
Naperville resident Dick Kuhn shares stories from Fairlane Farms, where his family raised horses. Fairlane Farms Park will be developed in 2024 along with Polo Club Park as part of the new Polo Club subdivision and is named in honor of this farm that brought polo to Naperville and is part of the farming and equestrian heritage of our community.
Guest: Dick Kuhn
Host: Sue Omanson
Take a Hike: The Benefits of Walking in Nature
October 20, 2023
Guests Kirsten Mullinax from Northshore Edward-Elmhurst Health, and Amy Phillips from The Conservation Foundation discuss the annual Take a Hike! Challenge and the benefits of walking in nature.
Guests: Kirsten Mullinax and Amy Phillips
Host: Sue Omanson
The Rewards of Gardening
September 15, 2023
In this episode, we hear from two gardeners about the joys, challenges and surprises of the 2023 gardening season at the Naperville Park District's Garden Plots. Our guests are Priyanka, who rented a plot for the first time, and Barb, who has maintained a plot for many years and is a master gardener.
Guests: Priyanka and Barb
Host: Sue Omanson
Summer Camp Reflections
August 17, 2023
Day camp staff leaders Cori and George reflect on the summer day camp experience, noting kids' creativity, fun memories and strengths of the program.
Guests: George and Cori
Host: Sue Omanson
Senior Softball Legends
June 30, 2023
Two 89-year-old ball players from the Naperville Park District's Over 50 Softball League explain why they love the game and what keeps them coming back year after year.
Guests: Toru Fugii and Chris Argianas
Host: Sue Omanson
Naperville's Unique Centennial Beach
May 24, 2023
Learn what makes Naperville's Centennial Beach a favorite summer destination. Two staff members familiar with Beach operations explain how it is unique and why people love it.
Guests: Andrea Coates and Brett Sprague
Host: Sue Omanson
S34 Episode 03: Science-based Careers in Parks
April 28, 2023
Ben Palczynski, Park Specialist II with the Naperville Park District, tells how his career has given him flexibility and the opportunity to apply his knowledge of horticulture in his daily work.
Guest: Ben Palczynski
Host: Sue Omanson
S34 Episode 02: Careers for New Graduates
April 12, 2023
Marissa Kula, a Naperville Park District staff member, tells how a part-time position in customer service at the Park District opened doors to new career opportunities for her in the field of parks and recreation.
Guest: Marissa Kula
Host: Sue Omanson
S34 Episode 01: Internships
March 21, 2023
Brad Wilson, executive director of the Naperville Park District, recalls highlights of his internship, which began his career at the District over 24 years ago, and he shares advice for college students currently seeking internships.
Guest: Brad Wilson
Host: Sue Omanson
S33: 2023 State of the Naperville Park District
February 1, 2023
This 5-episode series features interviews with Park District leaders and elected officials with a theme of "Sustainability" as it pertains to District operations across the organization in addition to providing a retrospective of 2022. This is the sixth year that we have offered the State of the Naperville Park District as a podcast series hosted by Sameera Luthman, Director of Marketing and Communications.
Host: Sameera Luthman
Listen Now
S32 Episode 02: Lifelong Fitness in All Seasons
January 13, 2023
Diana, a fitness member and part-time customer service representative at Fort Hill Activity Center, recounts her fitness journey from her early years as a teacher to her current life as a retiree.
Guest: Diana Cramer
Host: Sue Omanson
S32 Episode 01: Sustainable Fitness for a Healthy Life
December 16, 2022
Melissa, a fitness member and part-time fitness attendant at Fort Hill Activity Center, explains how she overcame injuries and finds joy in pursuing her current fitness goals.
Guest: Melissa Olivares
Host: Sue Omanson
S31 Episode 03: Spring Blooms
December 29, 2022
Ed Hedborn, manager of plant records at the Morton Arboretum, describes the earliest signs of spring growth in our Northern Illinois trees, from the greening of the willow twigs to the blooms of the crabapple trees.
Guest: Ed Hedborn
Host: Sue Omanson
S31 Episode 02: Invaders in our Natural Areas
November 1, 2022
Two Naperville Park District staff members explain what invasive trees and shrubs are and why it's important to remove them from natural areas to promote a healthy ecosystem.
Guest: Peggy Motta and Jesse Barr
Host: Sue Omanson
Listen Now
S31 Episode 01: Fall Colors
October 14, 2022
Ed Hedborn, manager of plant records at the Morton Arboretum and author of the Arboretum's Fall Color Report, explains some of the factors behind the timing and variations in color of our fall foliage.
Guest: Ed Hedborn
Host: Sue Omanson
Listen Now
S30 Episode 04: Work and Play at the Golf Courses
September 26, 2022
Kevin Carlson, director of golf at the Naperville Park District, talks about the opportunities available for retirees to work as well as play golf at Springbrook and Naperbrook Golf Courses.
Listen Now
S30 Episode 03: A Dramatic Recovery Leads to an Active Retirement
August 31, 2022
Jim, a fitness attendant at Fort Hill Fitness and a former executive in a large corporation tells of how he survived a major health crisis and is now enjoying an active retirement.
Listen Now
S30 Episode 02: Finding a Fun Retirement Job
August 19, 2022
After a 40-year career in the health care field, Don retired and then found not just one, but several fun, part-time jobs at the Naperville Park District. In this episode, he explains how these different jobs have enriched his life.
Listen Now
S30 Episode 01: Volunteering in Retirement
July 25, 2022
Former business owner Marty Ceranek tells how he successfully transitioned to retirement and why he enjoys volunteering at the Naperville Park District.
Listen Now
S29 Episode 04: Meet Our Volunteer Beekeeper
July 5, 2022
Volunteer beekeeper Joe Bourassa explains how to help honey bees thrive and shares his passion for insects, their wellbeing and their importance to our ecosystem.
Listen Now
S29 Episode 03: Digging in to Beautify Parks
June 1, 2022
Two park staff members tell how volunteers provide invaluable help in taking care of natural areas, keeping Riverwalk flowers blooming, and helping the Park District maintain parks across the community.
Listen Now
S29 Episode 02: The Rewards of Coaching
May 5, 2022
Parent volunteers Chris and Kelly, who are coaching 3 soccer teams this season, tell why they love coaching their kids' teams and how others can get involved.
Listen Now
S29 Episode 01: A Fresh Look at our Volunteer Program
April 11, 2022
Meet our new volunteer and events manager, Becca Krzyszkowski, and learn about the many ways to get involved as a volunteer in parks and recreation.
Listen Now
S28 Episode 02: Team Gymnastics
March 14, 2022
Gymnastics coordinator Karen Schmidt tells how young gymnasts enjoy the Naperville Park District's in-house team experience, making friends and gaining confidence while they learn the basics of competition in this popular sport.
Listen Now
S28 Episode 01: A New Life at 90
March 1, 2022
Fitness participant Louise shares her experience of moving to Naperville in 2020 in her late 80s and fitting in as a participant in the popular group exercise classes at Fort Hill Activity Center with others half her age.
Listen Now
S27 The 2022 State of the Naperville Park District Address
February 2, 2022
The 2022 State of the Naperville Park District Address includes seven episodes covering a variety of topics on the theme, “Rebuilding and Renewing.” Director of Marketing and Communications Sameera Luthman interviews Park Board President Marie Todd, Executive Director Brad Wilson, the four new commissioners who were elected in 2021 and other Park District staff.
Listen Now
S26 Episode 04: Volunteer Stewardship
January 21, 2022
Volunteer and retired teacher David Cleveland shares stories from decades of environmental projects with children and adults and his nature experiences while running locally and internationally.
Listen Now
S26 Episode 03: Winter Wildlife
December 13, 2021
Nature Center Manager Angelique Harshman gives insight into the needs and habits of common animals and birds that overwinter in northern Illinois, where to see them, bird feeding tips, and how to look for animal tracks in the snow.
Listen Now
S26 Episode 02: Protecting and Appreciating Fireflies
November 22, 2021
Dr. Doug Taron, biologist and Chief Curator of the Chicago Academy of Sciences at the Peggy Notebaert Museum, discusses the unique characteristics of fireflies and how to appreciate and protect them.
Listen Now
S26 Episode 01: Sustainability on a Local Level
November 9, 2021
Ben Mjolsness, the City of Naperville's first Sustainability Coordinator, discusses the City's opportunities for working with local partners to make progress in saving energy, reducing waste and conserving our natural environment on a local level.
Listen Now
S25 Episode 03: A Creative Expansion of the Disc Golf Course
October 7, 2021
John Teper and Spencer Huard explain the latest improvements to the disc golf course at Knoch Knolls Park and why they enjoy the sport and this location.
Listen Now
S25 Episode 02 – Driving a Cleaner, Greener Fleet
September 13, 2021
Lee Meyer, a fleet technician for the Naperville Park District, explains the latest improvements that make the District's vehicles and equipment cleaner, greener, safer and more efficient.
Listen Now
S25 Episode 031 Everyday Inventions for Better Parks
August 20, 2021
John Teper, one of the park operations managers for the Naperville Park District, shares some of the innovations that staff has developed to solve everyday problems. These include a dust shield for a baseball field groomer, a paint mixing station, floating islands of native plants in ponds and more.
Listen Now
S24 Episode 03: Healthy Minds for Senior Adults
July 28, 2021
Geriatric psychiatrist Dr. Sachin Bhalerao explains the challenges of isolation for older adults and offers hope and practical advice for those recovering from mental illnesses that may have developed during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also discusses the importance of structure and social contact in maintaining a healthy mind in both good and bad times.
Listen Now
S24 Episode 02: Boosting Mental Wellness
July 14, 2021
Gina Sharp, President and CEO of Linden Oaks Behavior Health, comments on the mental health pandemic that has occurred with COVID-19 and gives tips for returning to work, coping with stress, connecting with nature and getting the rest we need.
Listen Now
S24 Episode 01: Kids, Stress and Mental Health
June 24, 2021
KidsMatter is a local nonprofit working to empower kids to realize their purpose, know their value and find their pathway. Executive Director and CEO Nina Menis describes the community resources available to help youth cope with anxiety and emerge stronger from the pandemic.
Listen Now
S23 Episode 02: Gold Star Families Memorial
May 25, 2021
Jennifer Slown and Lew Breese describe the future Gold Star Families Memorial planned for Veterans Park in Naperville, why it's important and how others can help.
Listen Now
S23 Episode 01: Pull-Up Bars for Patriots
May 13, 2021
Gregg Kantz, founder of the nonprofit organization, Pull-Up Bars for Patriots, explains why he wants to honor fallen service members by installing pull-up bar memorials in parks. So far, two memorials are installed: one in Wheaton and the newest one in Naperville at Wolf's Crossing Community Park.
Listen Now
S22 Episode 04: Wildflower Walks
April 28, 2021
Nature Center Manager Angelique Harshman takes us on a spring wildflower walk in the woods at Knoch Knolls Park. Learn about what to look for and what makes these flowers unique. Bluebells and mayapples at Knoch Knolls Park.
Listen Now
S22 Episode 03: Appreciating Monarch Butterflies
April 7, 2021
Pat Miller, a master naturalist, master gardener and conservation specialist, tells the story of the monarch butterfly, its amazing migration to and from Mexico, its plight and how everyone can help. Photo taken at the Idea Gardens at the Ron Ory Community Garden Plots, Naperville Park District. Photo by Ron Ory.
Listen Now
S22 Episode 02: Bird Watching
March 16, 2021
Steve Constantelos and Joe Suchecki from the DuPage Birding Club talk about birdwatching in the Naperville area and how to get started.
Listen Now
S22 - Episode 01: Trail Running in Winter
March 2, 2021
Bob Langerveld, an experienced runner, member of the Chicago Area Runners Association and staff member of Naperville Running Company, shares tips for running outdoors in winter and why he enjoys it.
Listen Now
S21 The 2021 State of the Naperville Park District Address
January 29, 2021
This 5-episode series features interviews with Park District leaders and elected officials who share insights into current and future Park District projects and plans.
Listen Now
S20 Episode 03 Virtual Fitness
January 25, 2021
Fitness instructors Karen Moranchek and Mary Sullivan and participant Kathy Leis discuss the challenges and benefits of group fitness classes on Zoom, and how virtual classes help keep us healthy during a pandemic and beyond.
S20 Episode 01 Big Moves
December 1, 2020
Instructor Maura Connor and participant Hugh Flanders discuss a new class, BIG Moves, that helps those diagnosed with Parkinson's.
S19 Episode 04 Spotlight on Golf
November 10, 2020
Golfer Jon Lee and his daughter, Abby, tell how golfing enriched their lives this summer during the pandemic. Director of Golf Kevin Carlson reflects on the growth of golf at Naperville Park District's two courses and the challenges of operating during COVID-19.
S19 Episode 03 Special Recreation - A Vital Connection
October 12, 2020
Recreation Superintendent Ted Adatto from Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) tells how special recreation programs are helping individuals with disabilities to reconnect with their community during the pandemic.
S19 Episode 02 - Tennis in the Pandemic
September 14, 2020
Tennis program coordinator Meredith Pollack explains why tennis is a great sport to play or try for the first time during the pandemic.
S19 Episode 01 - Rotary Hill and the Paddleboat Quarry
August 21, 2020
Rotary Hill and the Paddleboat Quarry have become an oasis in the pandemic. Ray McGury tells how the new Midday Spray came about, and we talk with families enjoying the water at these favorite locations.
S18 Episode 04 - Naper Settlement's Future Agricultural Center
August 8, 2020
Guests Rena Tamayo-Calabrese, Donna Sack and Jeanne Schultz Angel explain how the new agricultural center will help tie farming from the past to agriculture of today and tomorrow.
S18 Episode 03 - Life on the Wolf Farm
July 16, 2020
Guests Ginny Wolf Chivas, Jerry Kuhn and Ed Kuhn recall life on Ginny's grandparents' farm in the 1950s and 60s in Naperville.
S18 Episode 02 - Yackley Farm
July 2, 2020
Norma Yackley Yeates shares her experiences growing up on a farm in Naperville from the 1930s to early 1950s and Ginny Wolf Chivas adds her perspective as a lifelong friend of Norma's and member of a farm family with a 170-year history in Naperville.
S18 Episode 01 - Wagner Farms
June 11, 2020
Guest Pam White, former owner of Wagner Farms in Naperville, Illinois, recalls growing up on the farm, favorite memories, and lessons that apply to suburban life today.
S17 Episode 03 - Water Quality in our Streams: A County Perspective
May 28, 2020
Mary Beth Falsey, water quality supervisor at DuPage County Stormwater Management, discusses county-wide programs and projects to improve water quality in our rivers and streams.
S17 Episode 02 - What Makes a River Healthy?
May 13, 2020
Jennifer Hammer, director of watershed programs and ecological restoration for The Conservation Foundation, explains regional efforts to improve water quality and habitat in the DuPage River, mentioning both success stories and challenges.
S17 Episode 01 - Healthy Shoreline, Healthy River
April 23, 2020
Project Manager Peggy Motta explains how native plants along the river shoreline prevent erosion and protect water quality, provide habitat for pollinators, discourage Canada geese from nesting along the shoreline, and provide a beautiful place to enjoy. This episode is part of Series 17: Protecting Our River
S16 - Episode 02: Stories from the Classroom
April 6, 2020
Preschool teachers and program managers explain the basic units of the new preschool curriculum and share success stories from the classroom. This episode is part of Series 16: Play with a Purpose.
S16 - Episode 01: The "Why" Behind our New Preschool Curriculum
March 23, 2020
Preschool teachers and program managers share their excitement about a new curriculum that helps kids learn and thrive.This episode is part of Series 16: Play with a Purpose.
S15 The 2020 State of the Naperville Park District Address
March 11, 2020
This 6-episode series features interviews with Park District leaders and elected officials who share insights into current and future Park District projects and plans. This is the third year that we have offered the State of the Naperville Park District as a podcast series hosted by Sameera Luthman, Director of Marketing and Communications.
S14 Episode 03: Drop-In Painting Group Nurtures Creativity
January 2, 2020
Three members of a drop-in painting group talk about the creative process and how this group nurtures their art.This episode is part of Series 14: Creative Pursuits
S14 Episode 02: Floral Artwork in the Parks
December 10, 2019
Listen to what goes into planning the beautiful floral displays at the Naperville Riverwalk and the wildflower gardens in Park District's natural areas, and why staff enjoys designing these ever-changing works of art in the parks.
S14 Episode 01: Zumba for Creativity and Energy
November 22, 2019
Zumba teacher Temeka tells how she discovered Zumba dancing and how it transformed her life and fosters creativity, energy and social connections for her students.
S13 Episode 02: From Our Veterans
November 4, 2019
Wayne Fischer, Senior Vice Commander of the Illinois American Legion, Joe Strebel, Naperville's American Legion Post 43 historian, and Lew Breeze, past commander of the Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873 explain the history behind our veterans organizations and how people can continue to support our service men and women.
S13 Episode 01: Healing Field Stories
October 23, 2019
Go behind the scenes of Naperville's 2019 Healing Field of Honor with Dave Wentz, Marty Walker and Sue Liston, who tell stories of what moves them to orchestrate this community event to honor and support veterans and active duty service men and women.
S12 Episode 04: A Meditation – Releasing Tension
October 9, 2019
This is a meditation led by yoga teacher Sarah Weyenberg that you can use at home or wherever you can listen and relax for about 9 minutes.
S12 Episode 03: A Meditation – Start Your Day With Gratitude
October 9, 2019
This is a meditation led by yoga teacher Sarah Weyenberg that you can use at home or wherever you can listen and relax for about 9 minutes.
S12 Episode 02: Yoga Meditations - Introduction
October 9, 2019
Experienced yoga teacher Sarah Weyenberg explains the benefits of meditation and how to begin. This is an introduction to Episodes 03 and 04, which are meditations that you can use.
S12 Episode 01: Health Benefits of Yoga
September 19, 2019
Physical therapist and yoga instructor Dr. Allison Mitch discusses some of the many benefits of yoga both for the general population and for those with medical conditions or special needs.
S11 Episode 04: Commissioners as Volunteers-Josh McBroom
September 4, 2019
Park Commissioner Josh McBroom, the newest member of the Park Board, explains why he chose to run and what he looks forward to over the next four years.
S11 Episode 03: Commissioners as Volunteers - Mike Reilly
August 22, 2019
Park Commissioner Mike Reilly reflects on his ten years on the Park District Board, what he learned, what the District has accomplished, and why he encourages others to consider running for office in the future.
S11 Episode 02: Theater Crew: Part of the Family
August 9, 2019
Volunteer Donna Kent, who creates costumes for Magical Starlight Theatre, tells why she loves being part of the musical theater productions each year and how others can get involved.
S11 Episode 01: Coaching Kids Sports
July 26, 2019
Volunteer coach Bryan Duncan gives tips for youth sports coaches and explains why he has loved coaching multiple teams over the past 10+ years.
S10 Episode 04: Why Players Love Pickleball – A Social Sport
July 15, 2019
Local pickleball player and organizer Jim Wehrli explains the social benefits of the game and how beginners can get involved.
S10 Episode 03: Why Players Love Pickleball – A Healthy Sport
June 28, 2019
Physical therapist Mary Rachford and occupational therapist Dina Kartsonas explain health benefits of pickleball and why they enjoy playing.
S10 Episode 02: Play Pickleball at the Naperville Park District
June 13, 2019
Program Manager Brock Atwell describes the growth of pickleball in Naperville, where beginners can play, and new courts planned for the future.
S10 Episode 01: Chicago Pickleball Open
May 31, 2019
Ken Herrmann, executive director of Chicago Metro Pickleball, talks about the first Chicago-area pickleball tournament coming July 16-21 to Naperville and why pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the nation.
S9 Episode 03: Fun and Fitness at the Riverwalk
May 2, 2019
Naperville Park District staff members Jackie Gonzalez and Brad Wilson highlight favorite summer activities and what's new in 2019 at the Riverwalk, Centennial Beach, Paddleboat Quarry and Millennium Carillon.
S9 Episode 02: Outdoor Fitness in Parks
April 10, 2019
Guests Kristina McGrath and Mike Piszynski discuss the outdoor fitness opportunities that Naperville Park District offers currently and will offer in the near future. Kristina explains how to use the fitness stations at 3 parks and previews a new outdoor fitness class coming this spring. Mike talks about the fitness area, challenge course and multi-purpose hill planned for the new park opening in 2020.
S9 Episode 01: Playgrounds
March 25, 2019
Learn about what goes into the design and construction of playgrounds in our public parks, and take a quick audio visit to a playground to hear what a parent has to say.
S8 Episode 03: Keep Sharp with Table Tennis
March 11, 2019
Table tennis players explain why they enjoy and benefit from weekly games at the local table tennis club.
S8 Episode 02: Fencing for Fun and Fitness
March 1, 2019
Coach Peter Habala, five-time national champion from Team Romania, explains the challenges of fencing and why it's great both for adults and kids.
S8 Episode 01: Beginning Ballet as an Adult
February 14, 2019
Three adult ballet students talk about the fun and benefits of beginning ballet as an adult.
S7 The 2019 State of the Naperville Park District Address
February 1, 2019
This 6-episode series features interviews with Park District leaders and elected officials who share insights into current and future Park District projects and plans. This is the second year that we have offered the State of the Naperville Park District as a podcast series hosted by Sameera Luthman, Director of Marketing and Communications. Listen now to the 2019 State of the Naperville Park District.
S6 Episode 02: Partnering to End Hunger
December 14, 2018
Nancy Wiersum from Loaves and Fishes and Brad Wilson from Naperville Park District discuss the impact of donations like garden fresh produce and pumpkin pies on ending hunger in our community.
S6 Episode 01: Giving Gardens
December 14, 2018
Giving Gardens Master Gardener Jan Gricus talks about the joys and challenges of growing vegetables at our community gardens and how donations of produce bring nutritious food to families in need.
S5 Episode 06: 3 Stories of How the Park District can Help Students Beat Stress
November 28, 2018
Three high school students explain how their workouts or dance activities at the Naperville Park District benefit them and relieve stress.
S5 Episode 05: Address the Stress
November 14, 2018
KidsMatter CEO and Executive Director Kamala Martinez returns to talk about 3 initiatives to help students beat stress: free online tutoring, a digital leader program and a job fair for high school and college students.
S5 Episode 04: State of the Kids
October 19, 2018
KidsMatter CEO and Executive Director Kamala Martinez reports the results of an eye-opening survey of youth stress and new resources to help kids and parents recognize and deal with stress in a healthy way.
S5 Episode 03: Nature Play for Young Children
October 5, 2018
Knoch Knolls Nature Center staff talk about a new program for young children and other ways for families to enjoy nature.
S5 Episode 02: Nature Therapy
September 12, 2018
Physical therapist Allison Mitch discusses health benefits of spending time in nature for both adults and children.
S5 Episode 01: Health and the Park District Mission
August 31, 2018
Physical therapist Allison Mitch discusses health benefits of spending time in nature for both adults and children.
S4 Episode 05: WellFit for Balance and Strength
August 14, 2018
Occupational therapist Dina Kartsonas describes the benefits for seniors of her WellFit Seated Strength Training and Better Balance and Core classes at the Naperville Park District.
S4 Episode 04: Riverwalk Adult Day Services
July 31, 2018
Executive Director Laura Milligan of Riverwalk Adult Day Services explains how providing a safe, social, stimulating environment for adults of all ages in need of daytime care benefits participants and their caregivers.
S4 Episode 03: Wood Carving
July 23, 2018
Award-winning wood carver Shelly Weiser tells how he began carving at age 75, learned from a master carver and teaches adults/kids at the Naperville Park District.
S4 Episode 02: Ride Assist Naperville
July 11, 2018
Guest Karen Courney explains a new transportation service available for Naperville seniors--how it works, her hopes for expanding in the future and opportunities to support this valuable and successful program.
S4 Episode 01: Fitness, Fun, Friends and Learning for Adults 50
June 25, 2018
Program Manager Lorraine Ouellette invites adults 50 and up to enjoy free or low-cost activities, classes and resources that can lead to better health, fitness, social connections and lifelong learning.
